superstorm sandy may be part of the reason job creation slowed. but worry over the fiscal cliff may have also had an immaterial pact. some economists believe that 200,000 fewer jobs thhave been created this year, due to uncertainty about the fiscal cliff. >> it's very important we get it done now. >> reporter: republicans and democrats are talking again. but still, no breakthrough. the parties are locked in a stalemate. president obama is demanding that higher tax rates for the wealthy and a permanent extension of the debt ceiling, the government's ability to borrow money, be part of the deal. >> he's assuming unprecedented power to spend taxpayer dollars out any limit at all. >> reporter: republicans who say they're open to raising tax revenue say they will only do so in exchange for deep spending cuts. if washington can't strike a deal, one casualty will be compensation for the long-term unemployed. that means people like linda vega, are worried. >> christmas and things of that nature are probably off the table. >> reporter: aides to president o